Hi guys! How did you establish a new office in Hamburg so quickly?
Tina: First, we secured a centrally located office that met our operational needs and growth plans. We found the perfect location at the heart of Hamburg, easily accessible for both clients and employees. Building a strong team is everything, so next, we focused on recruiting people with the right skill sets and knowledge to drive our operations forward.
We established key partnerships by carefully selecting a reliable warehousing partner. This way, we could ensure seamless logistics from day one. We also entered agreements with agents to expand our reach and improve our services in the region.
We also knew that communication and collaboration are central. By sharing knowledge and fostering agility, we accelerated our establishment timeline. Our cross-functional teams worked together, drawing on each other’s strengths, to make things possible.
To sum up, our approach to establishing a new office in Hamburg was marked by thorough planning, proactive decision-making, and collaborative execution.
What was your strategy for launching your LCL shipping services?
Isabel: We started by introducing our core LCL (Less-than-Container-Load) services in key markets, using our existing infrastructure. As we gained traction and customer feedback, we expanded our portfolio with new trade lanes, services, and transit options. This approach ensured that each service introduction was well-planned and executed.
We have now built a solid foundation for growth and success in the market. To remain responsive and flexible, we monitor market dynamics, trends, and customer preferences.
We are continuously broadening our service portfolio and expanding our presence to remain a trusted shipping and logistics partner.
Those are great achievements! Any lessons learnt or successes that you’re particularly proud of that you would like to share with us?
Tim: The rapid launch of several direct import and export services within a few months was a great success that I’m very proud of. With a clear vision and operational agility, we managed to quickly meet our clients’ needs.
When it comes to valuable lessons, I’ve learnt that obstacles and setbacks are inevitable. However, you cannot let them discourage you. By trusting the process and staying committed to our goals, we’ve navigated uncertainties and emerged stronger. Experiencing challenges has highlighted the importance of staying steadfast in our pursuit of success, regardless of the obstacles we may encounter along the way.
You now have 22 colleagues working at the Hamburg office. How did you recruit so many LCL shipping experts in such a short time?
Tim: An integral part of our recruitment strategy was creating an inviting work atmosphere. We prioritised offering our employees a positive work environment characterised by collaboration, support, and appreciation. This includes both the right technology and employee benefits designed to promote the well-being and satisfaction of our staff.
To us, it is super important to ensure our employees are well taken care of so they can deliver exceptional service to our customers, feel dedicated, and go that extra mile.
Do you have any tips for successfully building good relationships and strong company culture in a newly established office?
Tina: Yes, I have plenty! My first tip is to encourage transparent communication among team members right from the start. Establish formal and informal feedback channels to ensure everyone feels heard and valued. Use open office spaces for collaboration, idea sharing, discussions, and brainstorming sessions to foster a culture of openness.
Tip number two is to arrange regular team-building events to strengthen connections. For example, a visit to our company-owned ship, Götheborg of Sweden, helped our team bond while promoting our brand. Our tree-planting event last year fostered team unity and environmental stewardship. We also host an annual Christmas market and plan summer events, along with informal breakfasts and lunches for casual socialising.
My third tip is to establish clear goals to align team efforts. Let the leaders lead by example by living the company values and fostering a collaborative culture.
Last but not least, celebrate your achievements! This can include employee of the month awards, shoutouts in team meetings, or celebrations for major milestones.
Those are great tips! How do you utilise your team’s diverse skills and experiences in LCL shipping to foster innovation and growth?
Isabel: At our office, each team member brings a unique set of skills, experiences, and perspectives to the table. Through a collaborative and inclusive culture, we encourage them to share their expertise, explore new ideas, and challenge the status quo.
One concrete example is the recent initiative taken by our Sales Team Lead, Mascha. While traditionally focused on sales and administration, she saw the value in expanding her skill set to contribute to the development of our team and obtained a certification as a trainer and instructor. This not only enhanced her own abilities but also opened up new avenues for knowledge sharing and mentorship within our organisation.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in the logistics industry in Germany? Please share!
Tim: My advice is to embrace the dynamic nature of the field and be open to learning. Logistics is a fast-paced industry that offers a wide range of opportunities for those with diverse skill sets and interests. To thrive in this field, it is essential to stay updated on industry trends, technological advancements, and international regulations.
Networking is also crucial, so I would recommend building strong relationships with professionals, attending industry events, and joining relevant groups. These connections can provide valuable insights, job opportunities, and mentorships.
Additionally, gaining practical experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level positions can provide insights into the intricacies of logistics operations and help you develop essential skills and knowledge.
Finally, don’t underestimate the importance of soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, and adaptability. In a field as complex and dynamic as logistics, these skills are often just as important as technical expertise!
Thank you for sharing your insights and experiences with us!
Are you interested in pursuing a career in the logistics industry? Learn more about Greencarrier Consolidators or check our Career Page to check out job openings.
